Ako Aotearoa was thrilled to welcome 100 staff from over 40 organisations across the upper North Island tertiary education community to the 2025 Northern Regional Forum. The event featured a wide-ranging programme with presentations from Hanga-Aro-Rau Workforce Development Council, University of Waikato, University of Auckland, Mission Ready HQ, Unitec and more.
This year’s programme placed a strong focus on the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in tertiary education, and how the needs of priority learners can be better met across the sector. One attendee commented on how this focus might influence their own teaching practice:
"Hearing from educators and leaders who are pushing boundaries inspired me to rethink my own practices and consider how I can lead change within my institution.”
Pacific Panel on Fostering critical thinking (from left to right): Facilitator Phil Alexander Crawford, Vaivaimalemālō Fred Luatua, Jone Tawaketini, Kamuka Pati.
Northern Sector Services Manager (SSM) Ruth Peterson recently commented on what drove her to create such a diverse programme.
“The theme played a role – but it wasn’t the only factor. I wanted presenters who could spark a room, not just fill a speaking slot. So, I drew from cross-sector thinkers who could do that but also bring a fresh lens”
A particular highlight of the event came from the closing keynote speaker, Cody Mankelow from the University of Auckland. In a talk titled ‘Becoming Intentionally Fallible’, Cody shared his personal experiences of growing up with dyslexia and how he navigated academic life despite significant roadblocks and challenges.
His message about vulnerability deeply moved those in attendance, one of whom said it encouraged them to bring more of themselves into their teaching and leadership roles. Ruth Peterson also praised Cody’s presentation, calling it “powerful.” and commended him for continuing to challenge the status quo for neurodiverse learners in academia.
This thought-provoking presentation highlighted the need for educators to, in Cody’s words “accept that teaching is a vulnerable thing and to drop their armour”.
Forum attendees during the kōrerero sessions.
As part of the Ako Aotearoa Strategy Co-design process, the Northern Regional Forum also featured dedicated discussion (kōrerorero) sessions centered around teaching excellence and sector collaboration. These sessions gave attendees a chance to share experiences, identify collaboration opportunities, and help shape the future direction of Ako Aotearoa.
“Seeing the sessions taking place with energy and enthusiasm for the ideas, was the greatest highlight. I love that people in our sector care about their ākonga and that they want to make a difference!” Said Ruth Peterson. “Keep showing up with heart. The work is hard, but it matters and we’re here to support you.”
Ako Aotearoa now looks forward to hosting its final regional forum of the year in Ōtautahi Christchurch on 19 August, led by Southern Regional SSM Jennifer Leahy. The event promises another opportunity to connect, share insights, and influence sector-wide development.
Registrations are now open - spaces are limited.
